Tabitha Verney, 19 of Alna, recently received first place at the Snowfields Horse Training competition in Pownal.
Verney was the winner in the Olympic sport of Eventing, a component of equestrian riding, for the age 21 and under category. The sport is essentially a triathlon for both horse and rider that features three distinct phases of competition including dressing, cross country and sow jumping.
Verney, a 10-year veteran of horse riding, was drawn to the sport after grooming for Alna resident and horse trainer Mary Bowers. An experienced rider herself, Bowers was influential in Verney’s development.
“I’ve always loved horses and this is a great outlet,” said Verney.
Together with her horse Sterling, a quarter horse and thoroughbred mix, Verney has steadily climbed through the ranks of the sport, competing in New England for the past three years with an eye toward the national level.
“It’s been so fun to watch her grow and do so well. With this particular discipline she has developed a synergy and it’s inspiring,” said Bowers.
The first phase of Eventing is called dressage where the horse is judged on position, gaits, impulsion and acceptance of the bridle. The second phase, cross-country, involves galloping over a long course of jumps without having the horse break stride or completely stop. The third, called sow jumping or Stadium, is a test of memory and skill for both rider and horse as they attempt a series of jumps through a maze-like course. Her scores, well above average for her age group, are a reflection of Verney’s personal dedication and competitive spirit.
“I love competing and the challenge of the sport,” she said.
According to Bowers, equestrian riding has a small but passionate presence in Lincoln County with at least a dozen people competing she said. Bowers’ horse, Hunsterston, was named after her ancestral home in Scotland, which sits on the river Clyde where the famous Clydesdale horses originate.
The sport is thought to derive from warhorses that required specific disciplines to negotiate the perils of a battlefield. While still a popular event in certain pockets of the country, the sport is expensive and requires a significant investment in time. Boarding and transportation can cost up to $500 for some events said Bowers.
“I think the numbers are diminishing, there’s not much money to be made. I’m one of the few people my age that are doing this,” said Verney.
In addition to training for events, Verney is pursuing a business degree from the University of Maine Augusta. She hopes to compete on a national level but for now is pleased to make her mark in New England.
“It’s something I enjoy doing and want to continue,” she said.